As the only degree level apprentice in the House of Commons Gillian is championing more high-quality apprenticeships.
Gillian started working life at 16 on an apprenticeship scheme with Delco Electronics, a subsidiary of General Motors Group, in Kirby near Liverpool. She spent these early years moving around the company, whilst also studying for a Business Studies degree at Liverpool John Moores University. Gillian's experience of a comprehensive and wide ranging apprenticeship provided her with a foundation of skills and knowledge that helped continue a 27 year long business career.
Gillian previously served as the Co-Chair of the APPG for apprenticeships, providing a forum for parliamentarians and employers to discuss how to promote the role of high quality apprenticeships, such as the one Gillian experienced. There is a focus on how to ensure that apprenticeships serve as a pathway to a career, and how the apprenticeship model can meet the changing skill demands from businesses. In November 2018 Gillian was appointed as an MP Apprenticeship Ambassador to advocate for apprenticeship schemes across the country until she joined the Government.
In February 2020, Gillian was appointed as a Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Education where she is responsible for Apprenticeships and Skills.
